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Best summer destinations in Europe

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-summer-destinations-europe

written by Joanne Owen

updated 11.07.2023

Wondering where to head this summer for your perfect break? Our run-down of the best summer destinations in Europe has you covered, whether you’re seeking a chic sojourn in the sun or adventures in the bright outdoors. There’s plenty here if you’re travelling with kids, too, or fancy sampling the continent’s finest food and wine. Read on for inspiration that’ll have you reaching for your passport.

13. Bay of Kotor: best summer holiday destination for history

12. french riviera: best for glamorous resorts, 11. azores islands: great place for natural beauty, 10. balearic islands: the best summer destination in the mediterranean sea.

• 9. Greece: best for beach lovers and history buffs

8. Italy: the perfect destination for romance

7. spain: best for food and fiestas, 6. switzerland: the perfect place for scenery and cycling.

• 5. Portugal: best for world-class water sports and wine

4. Sweden: best for midsummer festival fun

3. slovenia: perfect summer destination for caves, castles and coastline, 2. iceland: the most unique place to visit in europe in the summer, 1. croatia: best for sailing and island-hopping.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.

Beguiling historic centre on a bay circled by gargantuan cliffs. Perched on the edge of a majestic bay, the medieval Old Town of Kotor is the undisputed jewel in Montenegro’s crown. Though no longer Europe’s best-kept secret, Kotor’s sudden elevation to the tour bus league has failed to dim the timeless delights of its maze of cobbled alleyways and secluded piazzas.

Enclosing cafés and churches galore, the town walls are peered down upon by a series of hulking peaks. Down below, a harbour now bustling with sleek yachts marks the end of the Bay of Kotor, made fjord-like by the thousand-metre cliffs that rise almost vertically from the serene waters.

Going to visit Montenegro for the first time? Explore our in-depth first-timer's guide to Montenegro. And for even more information read our guide to the best things to do in Montenegro and have a look at Montenegro itineraries , created by our local experts.

Kotor Bay, Montenegro © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Kotor:

• Best for amazing bay views: Conte Hotel & Restaurant
• Best for price and quality: Apartments Dakovic
• Best for luxury: Heritage Grand Perast

Discover more accommodation options to stay in the Bay of Kotor.

What to do in Kotor:

• Explore the Bay of Kotor on a speedboat cruise . Visit a former submarine base, see the fortress on the island of Mamulu, stop at the Our Lady of the Rocks artificial island and swim in the Blue Cave.

Montenegro travel tips and tours with Rough Guides:

• This is exactly what it sounds like - a Montenegro Adventure that will take you across the small, yet magical country and allow you to explore its beauty from the stunning coast on the South to the mountains and lakes on the North.
• And if you want to cover more than one destination at a time, you have a chance to experience the beauty of the Balkans during this 10-day-multiple-country trip .

The Côte d’Azur polarizes opinion like few places in France . To some, it remains the most glamorous of all Mediterranean playgrounds. To others, it’s an overdeveloped victim of its own hype.

Yet at its best – in the gaps between the urban sprawl, on the islands, is the remarkable beauty of the hills, the impossibly blue water after which the coast is named and in the special light that drew so many artists to paint here. It is without a doubt one of the best things to do in France.

As the summer playground of Europe’s youthful rich, St-Tropez is among the most overhyped spots in the Mediterranean. It remains undeniably glamorous. Its vast yachts and infamous champagne “spray” parties create an air of hedonistic excess in high summer.

Saint Tropez, Cote'd Azure, France © Shutterstock

Where to stay on the French Riviera:

• Best for budget stays: Hôtel Richelieu
• Best for secluded stays: Le Clos de Saint Aygulf
• Best for a perfect honeymoon: Villa 35 de Saint Aygulf

Explore the abundance of accommodation options on the French Riviera.

What to do on French Riviera:

• Discover the beauty of Saint-Tropez as you kayak in the Mediterranean Sea . Snorkel in the clear waters, see colourful marine life, and jump off a 3-meter cliff if you dare.

France travel tips and tours with Rough Guides:

• For a complete introduction to the country take our active walking tour out of the way in France. Several unique day excursions connect you with local Parisians to show you their city and way of life.
• And for a unique foodie experience, check out this tailor-made Tasting Eastern France tour . Start your trip in Lyon with some unique food tours before setting off on a 4-day walk across the Beaujolais region. Almost every day ends with a wine tasting in your guesthouse, soothing for body and soul.

Never considered holidays to the Azores? Think again. It's a chain of nine Atlantic islands — a volcanic archipelago which intersects Eurasian, North American and African plates.

Looking for the best summer destinations in Europe for natural beauty? The Azores is just that. These lush islands hide lakes and waterfalls. Expect bubbling hot springs and stunning flowery meadows. Plus Azores weather is warm year-round. The islands' population is around 250k. The unhurried pace of life makes holidays to the Azores even more appealing.

It's also the place for adventures, you can cycle, canyon or hike inland. Offshore there're opportunities for whale or dolphin watching. And surfing is easy and enjoyable on the Azores' spectacular sandy beaches.

Angra do Heroismo, Terceira, Azores, Portugal © Francesco Bonino/Shutterstock

Where to stay in the Azores:

• Best for couples: Miradouro da Papalva Guest House
• Best for budget stays: ZIGZAG HOSTEL
• Best for luxury: Pedras do Mar Resort & Spa

Find more accommodation options to stay in the Azores.

What to do in the Azores:

• Join an exciting marine wildlife tour with biologists and naturalist guides, to see and learn more about whales, dolphins, turtles, fish, birds, and the marine biodiversity of the Azores Islands.

Portugal travel tips and tours with Rough Guides:

• Get ready to discover what the largest island of the Azores, São Miguel, has to offer in this short Azores Wild Nature trip . You will get to swim with wild dolphins, abseil or jump down waterfalls, ride a mountain bike through the Sete Cidades and relax in a natural spa.
• Looking for a classic Portugal experience? Beginning in Lisbon and ending in Porto, this Cultural Portugal trip will take you to the delightful wine region of Douro, the mountain range of Serra do Bussaco and the romantic town of Sintra.

East of the Spanish mainland, the four chief Balearic Islands – Ibiza , Formentera , Mallorca and Menorca – maintain a character distinct from the rest of Spain and from each other.

Ibiza is wholly unique: its capital Ibiza Town is loaded with historic interest and is a draw for thousands of clubbers and LGBTQ visitors, while the north of the island has a distinctly bohemian character. Tiny Formentera has even better beaches than its neighbour and makes up in rustic charm what it lacks in cultural interest.

Mallorca , the largest Balearic island, has long since overcome its image as little more than the sun, booze and high-rise hotels. These days it is better known as one of the best summer destinations in Europe for stunning mountain scenery, fantastic hiking and cycling trail.

And finally, to the east, there’s Menorca – more subdued in its clientele, and here, at least, the modern resorts are kept at a safe distance from the two main towns. The capital Maó boasts the deepest harbour in the Med and the charming, pocket-sized port of Ciutadella.

With a mild Mediterranean climate and year-round sunshine, all four islands are particularly lovely in the winter months when they are at their quietest and most picturesque.

The City Palma de Majorca from a bird's eye view © Olga Yatsenko/Shutterstock

Where to stay on the Balearic Islands:

• Best for Ibiza: Aparthotel Puerto Cala Vadella
• Best for Formentera: Riu La Mola
• Best for Mallorca: Aparthotel Ona Cala Pi Club
• Best for Menorca: Grupotel Playa Club

What to do on the Balearic Islands:

• Explore the breathtaking beaches of Formentera and Ibiza on an all-inclusive boat trip and spend the afternoon in Formentera. Jump into the crystal clear water, relax on sunbeds while sipping on drinks, and enjoy a sunset dinner with fresh local food.

Spain travel tips and tours with Rough Guides:

• Explore our guide to the Balearic Islands or the best things to do in Spain for a complete immersion in Spain.
• The ultimate trip for Spain lovers - explore the country at a leisurely pace from the South to the North. Start in Seville and make your way to Madrid via Granada and Cordoba. From Madrid, continue to the North - the Camino de Santiago, Basque Country and mountains await.

Related articles from the blog

9. Greece: best for beach lovers and history buffs 

With historic sites spanning four millennia, an incredible coastline, and over 200 beautiful islands — it’s little wonder that  Greece  remains one of the best summer destinations in Europe. 

Sand, sea and sun lovers will want to read up on the  best Greek islands and the  best beaches in Greece . If you fancy seeing cultural sights alongside soaking up the sun, scoot to Santorini. Here you can relax on a range of  beautiful Greek beaches  after visiting Akrotiri, the Greek Pompeii.

Experiencing a Santorini sunset is by far one of the best things to do in Greece . 

Blue beauty on Santorini – one of the best summer destinations in Europe © Shutterstock

Then there’s  Athens . Where ancient myth meets modern metropolis, with the iconic Acropolis —  voted one of best places on earth  — looming large over the city, and family-friendly tavernas serving tasty  Greek food you need to try. 

For more inspiration, read our  travel tips for Greece , and check out  The Rough Guide to Greece . 

Where to stay in Greece:

• Best for beach-loving foodies: Corfu Palace Hotel
• Best for culture vultures: SV Acropolis Residence
• Best for Santorini sunsets: Golden Sunset Villa

What to do in Greece:

• For a stunning city-to-sea experience,  tour the Saronic Islands from Athens

Greece trips and tours with Rough Guides:

• Spoilt for choice? You’ll find ideas in our suggested  Greece itineraries
• From immersing yourself in the history and myth of the sunny Cyclades Islands to a road trip around Classical Greece — you'll find that Greece delivers sun and culture in equally dazzling measure

Narrowly missing out on the top spot in our reader survey of the most beautiful country in the world,  Italy  is hard to beat when it comes to the best summer destinations in Europe offering adulterated romance. 

From  Tuscany’s rolling hills and vineyards to the dazzling Amalfi coast , to romance-rich cities like  Rome ,  Florence  and  Venice . Italy isn’t short of  beautiful places  that'll help you realise your dreams of  La Dolce Vita .

It’s a country that invites pleasure, with stunning islands like  Sicily  and  Sardinia  on which to enjoy the seclusion and bounty of beautiful Italian beaches . Not to mention the country's many eating and drinking experiences.

The romance of Tuscany's rolling hills – hard to beat in summer © Shutterstock

Check out  our guidebooks about Italy, or start with our guide to  the best things to do in Italy .

Where to stay in Italy:

• Best for romantics: Hotel Casanova  
• Best for history buffs: Residenza Roma Imperiale
• Best for wine-lovers: Borgo Conde Wine Resort

What to do in Italy:

• When in Venice, take a  private gondola ride for the ultimate romantic experience. When in Rome, tour the beautiful Borghese Gallery and gardens

Italy trips and tours with Rough Guides:

• Looking for inspiration for your own romantic trip to  bella Italia ? You could consider a  custom-made trip to the Italian lakes
• Or how about a romantic break in Venice ?
• Try a tour that takes in three dreamy cities of the Italian Renaissance  — Rome, Florence and Venice

For foodies, Spain is one of the best summer destinations in Europe. From Seville’s sensational tapas to Jambugo’s jamón, to the seafood of  Cádiz , foodies will find plenty to satisfy their appetite. For a taster, read our guide . However, if there’s one area of Spain that best showcases the country’s food and fiestas, it is  Andalucía .

Andalucía is known for its flamboyant flamenco tradition and fine food © Shutterstock

The region’s three most significant cities —  Granada ,  Seville  and  Córdoba  — display Spain’s Moorish architecture at its most magnificent, providing awe-inspiring backdrops to al fresco dining and Andalucían fiestas. 

Sun and sand-seekers: don't miss the best beaches in Spain .

Top tip: take any chance you get to chow down churros in Madrid, one of the  best street foods in the world . 

Tempting Spanish tapas © Shutterstock

For more info and inspiration, explore our guidebooks to Spain , and see our guide to the best things to do in Spain.  

Where to stay in Spain:

• Best for traditional charm: Hotel Las Casas de la Judería
• Best for style-seekers: Vincci Albayzin
• Best for couples: Casagrand Luxury Suites

What to do in Spain:

• For a true taste of Seville, book a  tapas crawl , or cooking class
• Going to Granada? Follow up a  food tour  with an authentic flamenco show

Spain trips and tours with Rough Guides:

• For a truly immersive experience, you might want to consider booking a trip to explore the best of Andalućia
• Or give your tastebuds a treat on a  culinary break in Seville

Our survey of the most beautiful countries in the world saw Switzerland praised for its “spectacular scenery” and “beautiful spotless cities". It’s also one of the best summer destinations in Europe. 

Switzerland sparkles at pretty much every turn, with dozens of ways to enjoy exhilarating outdoor experiences . While adventurers will want to hike the Eiger in the spectacular  Jungfrau region , you could also be inspired by scenery from a quaint mountain train.

That said, there’s no better way to experience Switzerland’s mountain passes than on your bike. Running between Italian-speaking Airolo and German-speaking Uri, the epic St. Gotthard Pass is hard to beat. Expect hair-raising hairpin bends, mountain villages, and, uniquely for the  Swiss Alps , bone-shaking cobblestones. 

Switzerland's awe-inspiring scenery is sure to stop you in your tracks © Shutterstock

Switzerland’s urban hotspots are as sparkling as its lakes and ice-capped mountains. Head to well-heeled  Geneva  for museums, scenic shopping and Old Town charm. Meanwhile, cosmopolitan  Zurich  offers café culture and nightlife in sublime surroundings

For more Swiss inspiration, check out our  pictorial guidebook . Given that Switzerland has four official languages — German, French, Italian, and Romansch — you might also want to search our  range of phrasebooks . 

Where to stay in Switzerland: 

• Best for pampering: Sunstar Hotel and Spa Grindelwald
• Best for couples: Hotel de Geneve
• Best for alpine adventurers: Endweg Apartment

What to do in Switzerland:

• For the ultimate experience of Swiss scenery,  jump on a train to Jungfraujoch , Europe’s highest railway station

5. Portugal: best for world-class water sports and wine

Portugal’s  expansive coastline makes it a hotspot for water sports, with the  Algarve  boasting the country’s most sheltered — and popular — sandy beaches. In fact, this area is home to many of the  best beaches in Portugal.  Don't like crowds? Discover where you can get off the tourist trail in Portugal.

While the eastern Algarve is blessed with warm coves to swim in, the western coast has magnificent expanses of beach that face the mighty Atlantic Ocean, making for thrilling surfing and wind-surfing experiences – this is Portugal at its most exhilarating.  

Wild water sports await in Nazare, Portugal © Shutterstock

Chances are, you’ll need something to soak up all that world-class wine, so you’d do well to read up on the  best restaurants in Portugal. This is a country that's packed with excellent eating and drinking experiences.

Undecided about where to fly? See our guide to of Porto vs. Lisbon — or see our guide to the best things to do in Portugal .

Where to stay in Portugal:

• Best for luxury lovers: TURIM Terreiro do Paço Hotel
• Best for families: Torel Avantgarde
• Best for surfers: Vila Gale Ericeira

What to do in Portugal:

• Based in Lisbon? Discover Sintra’s beauty, history and romantic Pena Palace, and the stunning coastlines of Cabo da Roca and Cascais
• From Porto, we recommend taking a relaxing  river cruise to a duo of Douro Valley vineyards

Portugal trips and tours with Rough Guides:

• Like to avoid crowds? Take an  off-the-beaten-track tour of North Portugal from Porto — think fine wine (of course) and opportunities to wind down in lesser-visited beauty spots
• No trip to Portugal would be complete without enjoying the country’s wine and port. To do exactly that while exploring stunning countryside scenery, you could book a wine-focused tour of the Douro Valley .

Sweden  is a glorious destination for travellers seeking space, serenity and sports around the year. That said, experiencing the midsummer solstice celebration provides a mix of magic and mayhem you’ll never forget.

Celebrated across the weekend closest to the 24th of June, Sweden’s midsummer celebrations spark a mass exodus from towns and cities as everyone heads to the countryside and coasts.  Dalarna , the island of Öland, and the  Bohuslän coast  are among the most popular spots. 

Maypoles are erected in gardens and parks as gigantic fertility symbols, while trestle tables buckle under the weight of huge feasts. The party extends long into the light night, with dancing and drinking accompanied by accordions and fiddles.

From where to go, to what to expect, discover more about Sweden’s unforgettable midsummer celebrations . And for inspiration for visiting Sweden at any time of year, read our guide to the best things to do in Sweden.

Stockholm's archipelago attracts thousands of fun-loving midsummer celebrants © ROUSSELLE Xavier/Shutterstock

Midsummer festivities aside, visiting Sweden in summer also means enjoying walks through forests and fragrant meadows, and fun lake-based activities. And Sweden's not short of fascinating cities, either. Stylish  Stockholm  offers great opportunities for rewarding day trips , while easy-going  Gothenburg  boasts a glorious Old Town and excellent museums and galleries. 

Keen to start planning your summer in Sweden? Read up on  the best things to do in Sweden , and get your hands on a copy of  The Rough Guide to Sweden .

Where to stay in Sweden:

• Best for 19th-century style:  First Hotel Grand Falun
• Best for cyclists and canoeists: Slipens Hotell
• Best for eco-minded families: First Camp Västerås-Mälaren

What to do in Sweden: 

• Wildlife lovers based in Stockholm won’t want to miss taking a  nature trip with a campfire dinner to see moose, deer, wild boars, hares, badgers, foxes and plenty of birds

Happily,  Slovenia's  elegant capital,  Ljubljana , is a charming, convenient base from which to visit a host of the country’s attractions. This city has its own hilltop 15th-century castle to explore before you venture further afield.

Lake Bled  is an absolute must-visit. A mere 50 minutes from the capital, this mirror-like expanse of water boasts a fairy tale island and cliff-top castle, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Perhaps most magical of all is the fact that Lake Bled somehow retains its atmosphere no matter how many visitors rock up for summer water sports, winter ice skating, and year-round enchantment.

Bleeding beautiful — Lake Bled, Slovenia © Shutterstock

Visiting Postojna Caves and Postjama Castle in  southwest Slovenia , around 53 kilometres from Ljubljana, is another unmissable day trip. On arrival at the cave system, you’ll board a train that’ll transport you to a sublime subterranean world ( Fraggle Rock , eat your heart out), culminating in a show-stopping, cathedral-like chamber. 

A few kilometres northwest of Postojna caves, sixteenth-century Predjama Castle is a precariously-sited feat of architectural wonder — it’s built into and around an elevated cave entrance in the centre of a dramatic karst landscape.

Beyond its undeniably beautiful interior, Slovenia’s coastline might be short, but it’s incredibly sweet and varied. Discover the diversity of Slovenia’s coastline , from picturesque Piran to the spa town of Portorož, often described as Slovenia’s answer to the French Riviera.

Piran makes it plain to see why Slovenia is one of the best countries in Europe for summer © Shutterstock

If you’re interested in nature and ecology, you’ll want to know why there’s a buzz about Slovenia’s bee tourism . 

Want more inspiration? Find out about the best things to do in Slovenia, and dig into  The Rough Guide to Slovenia .

Where to stay in Slovenia: 

• Best for lakeside luxury: Vila Bled
• Best for families: Guesthouse Soul
• Best for travellers on a budget: Guest House PachaMama

What to do in Slovenia: 

• For ease, book a  guided tour to Postojna Caves and Postjama Castle – and you can do the same for  Lake Bled

Slovenia trips and tours with Rough Guides:

• To experience Slovenia in all its majesty — from the caves and castles of its stunning interior to that sublime coastline — you could consider booking a customisable  treasures of Slovenia trip .  

The incredible Postojna Caves, Slovenia © Shutterstock

There’s a reason  Iceland  made it into our run-down of the world’s best adventure holidays . In fact, there is a tonne of experiences to tempt adventurers to visit — from ice and lava-caving to glacier hiking and intercontinental snorkelling, and all against spectacular backdrops of glaciers, fjords and mighty volcanoes. See for yourself in our  gallery . 

Serious hikers will want to tackle Iceland’s most extreme trail . Alternatively, if you like to mix adventure with wildlife-watching and cultural experiences, check out our customisable trips to Iceland’s  enchanting east , or the  wild west , where cascading waterfalls and bubbling hot springs await. 

Dyrholaey black sand volcanic beach © Shutterstock

Talking of springs, before you go, read up on Iceland’s best hot pools , and the dos and don'ts of Icelandic spas . Taking the plunge is among the   best things to do in Iceland . For more information, check out our guide for the best things to see in the summer in Iceland.

Where to stay in Iceland:

• Best for families: Kvosin Downtown Hotel
• Best for thrill-seekers: Hótel Skógafoss  
• Best for price and quality: Saeluhus Apartments & Houses

Alternatively, to take the hassle out of booking your accommodation (and everything else, for that matter), take a look at our  Iceland itineraries

What to do in Iceland:

• Take a snorkelling adventure between the tectonic plates of North America and Europe at the Silfra Fissure

With its gorgeous Adriatic coast offering over 200km of brilliantly blue sea and more than 1000 islands to stop off on,  Croatia  is one of Europe’s top sailing destinations. This is just one of the factors that make it the best summer destination in Europe.

Talking of which, head to handsome Hvar Island for chic bars, fun nightlife and fine food. You'll certainly be able to enjoy some of Croatia's top foodie experiences here.

City Harbour of the town of Hvar, on the island of Hvar, the Adriatic coast of Croatia © rustamank/Shutterstock

Given that the islands are home to many of the  best beaches in Croatia , you might want to learn how to make the most of island-hopping in Croatia .

Sailing and island exploration aside, Croatia is also an excellent destination for adventure-seekers and culture vultures, as revealed in our run-down of the best things to do in Croatia . 

Been there, done that? For those who like to get off the beaten track, Croatia has plenty of  unusual things to do , among them visiting the zany Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia's capital of cool .

Where to stay in Croatia

• Best for island elegance: Hotel Adriana .
• Best for Art Deco aficionados: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
• Best for couples: Villa Dubrovnik

What to do in Croatia:

• Staying in a Croatian city doesn’t mean missing out on island-hopping adventures. You could, for example,  cruise from Split to Hvar and Pakleni Islands

Croatia trips and tours with Rough Guides

• Try a tailor-made Dalmatia sailing trip  — ideal for newbie navigators who want to enjoy exploring all those Adriatic islands.

Ready to pack that suitcase? Search the Rough Guides Shop  to find the perfect guidebook or ebook to enhance your summer in Europe. Counting the pennies? Leaving a bit earlier? Explore our guide to the best places to visit in spring .

Alternatively, to be freed from the stress of planning and booking your break, find out why taking a  tailor-made trip  makes perfect sense.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: the Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Where the Condé Nast Traveller editors are going on holiday this summer

By Condé Nast Traveller

Our editors reveal the summer hot spots they're holidaying in this year – from island hopping in Greece to picnics along the river in Albania.

Lake Como, Italy

Divia Thani, global editorial director

“ Lake Como! When I was there in 2019, I'd wished I'd return soon, so I feel very lucky to be spending a week there this summer! First, at the splendid new Passalacqua , which is now easily among my all-time favourite hotels, and then at Villa d'Este, the icon, which just celebrated 150 years! I love taking a boat down the lake and checking out the small towns along the way, and of course, discovering local restaurants ! I found a great spot for a lemon ravioli that's going to stay with me for a long time.”

Toby Skinner, features director

“This summer, possibly unusually, I'm craving a total lack of choice (and possibly WiFi). So I'm going with my family for a week on a gulet round Turkey's Turquoise Coast with ScicSailing, a really lovely Dutch-run company – going wherever they take us, eating whatever they give us, and probably existing on a contented loop of swimming/sun-bathing/eating. I'm also jealous of a trip we're sending a writer on, on a phinisi boat round Indonesia's Komodo Islands , and staying at Nirjhara , the new jungle-modern resort in Bali . Autumn will be for adventure and self-improvement (I'm planning a men's transformational retreat); summer is for happy oblivion.”

St Wolfgang, Austria

Sarah Allard, digital editor

“ Austria wasn’t the first place that sprung to my mind when tasked with planning the annual family holiday this July , but it quickly became the winning spot for keeping everyone happy – from my retired parents to my one-year-old nephew – thanks to the mid-20s temperatures, abundance of outdoor activities and fresh Alpine air on offer. We’ll be heading to St Wolfgang – a picturesque Austrian town on Lake Wolfgangsee complete with cobbled streets littered with pavement cafes, the prettiest lakeside church and a mountain railway to take in the views.”

Norfolk, UK

Sarah James, deputy digital editor

“There’s nothing quite like the British countryside in the summer – a happy discovery I made when successive lockdowns prevented me from travelling too far afield over the past few years. This summer, I’m planning an extended trip to Norfolk for picnics in the sunshine, long walks along the coast and some of the most delicious English produce. On the bucket list: walks along Holkham Beach’s lunar-like landscape, fish and chips on the sea wall at Wells-next-the-Sea, and a long, tramping walk through the Sandringham Estate. I’ve got my eye on rooms at The Harper , one of our Hot List 2022 hotels, that’s airy and bright for summer days, with snug corners for any chillier evenings (this is British summertime after all).”

Abigail Malbon, acting audience growth manager

“This summer, for me, is all about exploration and relaxation; I want to see places I haven’t before, and swim in crystal clear waters. Of course, so does absolutely everyone else – but I’m hoping Corsica will be less crowded than its Mediterranean neighbours as the revenge travel crowds descend. The island is incredibly geographically diverse, and I plan to hike for views of glittering secret bays, snorkel in the warm waters, and swim in natural pools in the Fango valley. I’ll base myself at Villa Joséphine in L’Ile-Rousse on the north coast, where I’ll be immersed in nature but close enough to the Citadelle in Corte to see old architecture and visit local museums.”

Olivia Morelli, social media manager

“I've been hearing rumours of Albania's sugar-sand beaches , crystal-clear waters and forest-furred hinterlands for a few years now, so this summer my friends and I have decided to see what all the fuss is about. We’ll be beach-hopping along the coastline from north to south, starting off at the lakeside city of Shkodër, down towards the lagoons of Divjaka-Karavasta National Park and ending up on the white-sand beaches of Gjipe, Sarandë and Ksamil. Plus, I am desperate to spend a day exploring the Albanian Alps – the Grunas Canyon is 60 metres deep and you can have a picnic while gazing at the sparkling Thethi River.”

Mykonos and Milos, Greece

Sophie Knight, visuals editor

“ Milos has been on my bucket list for years, and this summer I’m finally visiting. I’m drawn to the chalky white cliffs and turquoise waters of Sarakiniko beach . First off we'll fly into Mykonos , the more lively of the Cyclades islands . We’ve reserved beds for the day at Scorpios beach club where we’ll be sipping sundowners to the sound of the sea and resident DJs. Later on in the week we’ll get the three and a half hour ferry to the quieter volcanic island of Milos. There’s plenty of spots to visit, craggy cliffs with secret cove beaches and colourful, sleepy fishing villages. Between exploring, indulging in fresh seafood and boating around, I’ll be spending my fair share of time flopped on a sun bed lapping up the rays.”

Greek Islands

Connor Sturges, digital assistant

“With a trip to the Bodrum peninsula on the cards at some point over the coming months, I’m dreaming of extending my Turkish fly-and-flop with an explorative roam around some of the nearby Greek islands . Having ambled through the harbour of Kos Town and flirted with mythology at The Tree of Hippocrates on multiple occasions, I’m hoping to go further inland on my next visit, now aware how large the island is and how many dazzling beaches there are to uncover. Aside from the big hitters still on my list ( Crete , Corfu etc.) I’m being drawn to the smaller isles. Symi is high on that list; pastel-coloured townhouses line the hills, freshly-caught seafood is grilled in tavernas, and under-the-radar beaches await discovery – before the height of the season and school holiday crowds arrive, at least.”

John O'Ceallaigh

Olivia Morelli

Lauren Burvill

Monisha Rajesh

Menton, France

Zahra Surya Darma, digital team assistant

“I’ve been craving a seaside getaway so I plan to spend a few blissful days back on the French Riviera . While more popular spots in Côte D'Azur – like Cannes and Saint-Tropez – have some stunning scenery, Menton is where I’ll spend most of my time for a much more slow-paced holiday. Some of my extended family have retired here (truly living the dream), so I’m looking forward to catch-ups over breakfasts on the terrace, afternoons lying on the beach reading a good book, and a few dinners in Ventimiglia - a small village just a short drive from the French-Italian border – eating fresh pasta with ocean-side views . I'm also looking forward to trying three-Michelin star restaurant Mirazur, on the list of best restaurants in the world .”

14 amazing places in the USA for a summer vacation

May 10, 2023 • 11 min read

San Diego is the perfect place to go for a summer holiday © Tetra images RF / Getty Images

Since summer is just around the corner, it’s likely you’re already dreaming of where to spend your vacation. 

You won’t be alone. The June-to-August season is the USA ’s busiest travel season, with warm days across the entire country drawing big crowds and higher prices. Music and food festivals as well as outdoor activities ensure that summer is the liveliest time to travel the country. Kids are out of school, and some of the country’s outdoor spaces, including national parks , are fully open for the season.

Whether you’re ready to brave the crowds to see some of the most incredible, best-known places or you want to get a bit more off the beaten path, here are 14 incredible places for a summer vacation in the United States.

1. Glacier National Park, Montana

Few places on earth are as magnificent and pristine as Glacier National Park . Protected in 1910 during the first flowering of the American conservationist movement, Glacier ranks with Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon among the United States’ most astounding natural wonders. The glacially carved remnants of an ancient thrust fault left a brilliant landscape of towering snowcapped pinnacles laced with plunging waterfalls and glassy turquoise lakes. The mountains are surrounded by dense forests, which host a virtually intact pre-Columbian ecosystem. Grizzly bears still roam in abundance, and smart park management has kept the place accessible and authentically wild.

Although the park remains open year-round, most services are closed between October and mid-May, making a summer visit the best, if not only, time to get the park’s full offering. Going-to-the-Sun Rd , which crosses Glacier National Park, opens when crews finish plowing the snow, which could be as late as July.

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

From either Mackinaw City or St Ignace, you can catch a ferry to Mackinac Island, Michigan . The island’s location in the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron made it a prized port in the North American fur trade, and a site the British and Americans battled over many times. The most important date on this 3.8-sq-mile island was 1898 – the year cars were banned in order to encourage tourism. Today, all travel is by horse or bicycle; even the police use bikes to patrol the town. Eighty percent of Mackinac Island is state parkland.

The crowds of tourists – called Fudgies by the islanders – can be crushing at times, particularly during summer weekends. But when the last ferry leaves in the evening and clears out the day-trippers, Mackinac’s real charm emerges as you drift back into another, slower era.

3. Lewes, Delaware 

This tiny, darling dot on the coast is known as the “First Town in the First State ” and is a must-visit come summer. The main attraction in Lewes is its gorgeous, wheelchair-accessible beach, part of the 5000-acre Cape Henlopen State Park  – which also contains a nature reserve with excellent programming (bird walk, anyone?). But the entire town will draw you with its historic Victorian homes, some dating from the 1700s, treasure-filled antique shops and beachy boutiques, multiple restaurants and the not-to-be-missed King’s Homemade Ice Cream .

View remnants of the War of 1812 and other relics at Cannonball House, part of the 90-minute Lewes Legends Walking Tour, which brings local history to life every Wednesday evening. Explore the Saturday morning Historic Lewes farmers market, then make your way to Eggcelent for a divine breakfast spread. Take a seat at an outdoor table at The Station on Kings , a knock-out cafe, restaurant and home and garden store that begs to be photographed, as does the adjacent Marigold Creamery ice cream truck. Reserve at table at Heirloom or pop into Striper Bites for a scrumptious dinner and drinks. Be sure to get out on the water, too: we love Cape Water Tours “Dolphin Watch” cruise.

4. The Big Island, Hawaii

The island of Hawai’i (most often referred to as “the Big Island”) is the largest of the state ’s chain of islands, and it’s full of scenic beauty, miles of volcanic rock formations, breathtaking peaks and valleys, waterfalls, trails and rugged beaches (including the Papakōlea green-sand beach ). With eight of the world’s 13 climate zones, the island of Hawai’i is ecologically diverse to an astounding degree, with thousands of unique species of plants and animals.

A car is a must with so much to see, but the roads are rarely crowded (save for rush-hour traffic around Kona and Hilo ). Dive with manta rays in Captain Cook, ride horses in Wailea , stargaze near the summit of Mauna Kea , swim at Mahaiʻula Beach and most definitely take a hike in stunning  Volcanoes National Park . Better yet, plan to shack up at the historic Volcano House inside the park, where Mark Twain once stayed. Start the day by sipping a hot cup of Kona coffee at 4000ft and wrap it up with a sunset mai tai aboard a catamaran followed by a delicious dinner at Moon and Turtle in Hilo.

5. Outer Banks, North Carolina

North Carolina ’s Outer Banks are fragile ribbons of sand tracing the Atlantic coastline for more than 100 miles, separated from the mainland by sounds and waterways. Broken up by villages, the ribbon of Cape Hatteras National Seashore  is home to several noteworthy lighthouses. A meandering drive down Hwy 12, which connects much of the Outer Banks and makes up part of the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway (and its 21 coastal villages), is one of the truly great American road trips.

The quaint waterfront area of Manteo is a pleasant base from which to explore the Outer Banks. Near the harbor is the Roanoke Island Festival Park , where visitors can learn about the first English colonies on North American soil. In summer, be sure to catch an atmospheric amphitheater performance by Lost Colony Outdoor Drama , which portrays the story of the colonists who arrived in Manteo in the 1580s (before the European settlers arrived at Plymouth Rock) – and then disappeared.

6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is the wild, free-flowing, beating heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Its real showstoppers are the geysers and hot springs – nature’s crowd-pleasers – yet at every turn this land of fire and brimstone breathes, belches and bubbles like a giant kettle on the boil. The park’s highways traverse these geysers, through meadows and forests, past roadside herds of bison and campsites aromatic with pine needles and family campfires. In between lies the country’s largest collection of elk, the continent’s oldest and largest wild bison herds, and a pristine wilderness roamed by wolves, grizzlies, moose and antelope.

June to August is the busiest time to visit Yellowstone (when more than half of the park's visitors arrive), perhaps because it’s the time of year when the full range of visitor services, accommodations and entrances to the park is open. Hotel rates peak at gateway towns, park campgrounds fill by lunchtime – and reservations are essential.

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston ’s history recalls revolution and transformation, and today the city is still among the country’s most forward-thinking and barrier-breaking cities. For all intents and purposes, Boston is the oldest city in the US, and you can hardly walk a step over its cobblestone streets without running into some historic site. Yet Boston has not been relegated to the past. A history of cultural patronage means that the city’s art and music scenes continue to charm and challenge contemporary audiences. Cutting-edge urban-planning projects are reshaping the city even now, as neighborhoods are revived and reinvigorated. Historic universities and colleges still attract scientists, philosophers and writers, who shape the city’s evolving culture.

Although summers in Boston are hot and humid, the city is noticeably quieter when students have vacated and Bostonians head to their summer homes. When you need to beat the heat, join them at the irresistible North Shore beaches nearby, which draw crowds thanks to the hot sun and cold sea.

8. San Diego, California

San Diego calls itself “America’s Finest City” – which embodies the breezy confidence and sunny cheer that filters down here even to folks you encounter every day on the street. The city may feel like a collection of villages, each with its own personality , yet San Diego is the nation’s eighth-largest city. And even with its huge size, there’s probably nowhere more laid-back on earth.

What’s not to love? San Diego bursts with world-famous attractions for the entire family, including the zoo and the museums of Balboa Park . And that’s not to mention the excellent seafood, a buzzing downtown and beautiful hikes for all , plus more than 60 beaches and  perhaps the USA’s most perfect weather.

9. Chicago, Illinois

Steely skyscrapers, top chefs, rocking festivals: the Windy City will blow you away with its low-key, cultured awesomeness. It’s hard to know what to gawk at first in Chicago . High-flying architecture is everywhere, from the stratospheric, glass-floored Willis Tower to Frank Gehry’s swooping silver Pritzker Pavilion to Frank Lloyd Wright’s stained-glass-filled  Robie House . Whimsical public art studs the streets; you might be walking along and...wham, there’s an abstract Picasso statue that’s not only cool to look at, but climbable, too. For art museums, take your pick: Impressionist masterpieces at the massive Art Institute of Chicago , psychedelic paintings at the midsize  National Museum of Mexican Art or outsider drawings at the small Intuit gallery .

Chicago’s peak visitor season is June through August. Summertime festivals rock Chicago’s neighborhoods almost every weekend, and  Millennium Park plays hosts to many concerts downtown. Fireflies glow everywhere. It can be hot and humid, but who cares?

10. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is one of the world’s most famous mountain destinations, but that doesn’t mean it’s just for winter skiing. Aspen takes on new shades and personalities with the seasons . In fall, the hills are set afire with the quaking of a million golden aspen leaves. In winter, the slopes come to life and the party hits maximum velocity. Come springtime, the flowers start to bud near the mirrored alpine lakes. And finally, in summer – ah, summer in Aspen! – everything comes together, with music festivals, arts, miles upon miles of trails to explore and perfect days under the bluebird-hued Colorado sky.

There are excellent restaurants at nearly every corner of the historic downtown area. Top it off with an understated chic that permeates nearly everything you do, eat, see and experience here, and you have the makings of maybe the best mountain vacation ever.

11. Portland, Oregon

Best-in-class coffee. The most food carts. Top craft breweries. The world-famous quirkiness. Portland is a city of indie-spirited superlatives and humble, offbeat charms. Portland has an almost unfair abundance of natural beauty: perfect parks , leafy trees, vibrantly flowering shrubs lining pretty residential streets, the Willamette River meandering through town and Mt Hood on the horizon. Summer in Portland sees festivals galore, including the Oregon Brewers Festival and the Bite of Oregon. Long-awaited wildflowers reach their peak bloom in early summer.

12. Grand Canyon, Arizona

No matter how much you read about the Grand Canyon or how many photographs you’ve seen, nothing really prepares you for the sight of it: it’s so startlingly familiar and iconic and simply awe-inspiring, you can’t take your eyes off it. The canyon’s immensity, the sheer intensity of light and shadow at sunrise or sunset, even its very age, scream for superlatives. The Grand Canyon embodies the scale and splendor of the American West , through its dramatic vistas, dusty trails and stories of exploration, preservation and exploitation.

Most visitors head to canyon’s South Rim  – yet the summer months are the best time to visit the North Rim , which is open only from mid-May to mid-October. The North Rim is Grand Canyon plus. Here, the elevation is a little higher, the temperatures are a little cooler, the trails are a little steeper and the views…yeah, they’re a little bigger. Since this side gets more rain and snow, erosion has chewed deeper into the North Rim, creating mazes of side canyons while leaving sky islands and temples towering above the Colorado River.

13. South Walton, Florida

Sandwiched between Destin and Panama City along Scenic Hwy 30A in the Florida Panhandle are 16 unincorporated communities collectively known as South Walton. Each town has its own identity, most master-planned resort towns with architecture following set themes. If you only make two stops, we recommend delightful Grayton Beach , which feels as though it was settled by old-school hippies who came into money (stay a night here if you can) and the meticulously manicured village of Seaside, which is so well planned they filmed The Truman Show here. Other points of interest include the whimsically named community of WaterColor, Moroccan-themed Alys Beach and the Dutch-inspired hamlet of Rosemary Beach.

14. The Ozarks, Missouri

Even though flashy Branson receives the lion’s share of tourists (nowhere in the USA will you find more family-friendly entertainment, with huge hokey musicals in abundance), hiking and river floating are the two best reasons to visit the Ozarks . Indeed, beyond Branson, nature rules in this mountain range, which straddles Missouri , Arkansas and Oklahoma . The Ozarks’ true charms can be found in its rolling hills and deep clefts, where wild spring-fed rivers carry legions of happy people floating downstream. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways – the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers – boast 134 miles of splendid canoeing and inner-tubing. Back on land, you never know when you’ll stumble onto another tiny village seemingly conjured up on a Hollywood back lot.

This article was first published April 2018 and updated May 2023

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The Best Last-Minute Summer Travel Deals to Book Now

Flights to hawai‘i from $119. alaska cruises for $299. these flight, cruise, and hotel offers could still salvage your 2023 travel plans..

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You can still score an amazing flight deal to the island of O‘ahu.

Photo by Shutterstock

With its long, sunny days, and kids out of school, summer is typically a busy season for travel. But jam-packed planes and sky-high airfares mean that many Americans aren’t able to plan for as much travel as they’d like this year.

Luckily, numerous travel companies, including airlines, cruises , and hotels, have recently launched promotions that could help customers realize their travel dreams this summer and fall. Here are the best travel deals we’ve spotted to hopefully inspire those future getaways.

Air New Zealand’s flight deal could bring you to some of Australia’s most iconic destinations, like the Sydney Opera House.

Flights to Australia starting at $1,195 round-trip

Air New Zealand is making it easier to get down under this summer. From now through August 6, the airline is running a sale on flights from North America (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Chicago, and Vancouver) to Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Perth, Hobart, and Cairns) for as little as $1,195.

35 percent off two of London’s top hotels

Preferred Hotels & Resorts is currently offering a Last Minute Escapes promotion, offering deals at two of London’s top-notch hotels: The Guardsman and Middle Eight . From now through July 31, travelers can score 35 percent off rooms by using the promo code: MKTFLASH.

40 percent off and fifth night free at select World of Hyatt hotels

World of Hyatt is offering hot summer discounts across its portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts globally. One of the most impressive deals is arguably at Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, which is offering 40 percent off all stays and the fifth night free for bookings made before July 31.

Save up to $500 on an EF Go Ahead Tours trip

Small group tour company EF Go Ahead Tours is running a Off-peak Escape Flash Sale through July 24, with discounts of up to $500 off on many of its trips. There are also ongoing last-minute specials, where travelers can save up to $600 on trips departing in the next few months.

Norse Atlantic’s flight deal could take you to London for just $99 one-way.

Norse Atlantic Airways flights for as little as $99

Heading to Europe this summer? Low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic Airways is offering deals on flights from certain U.S. cities (New York, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Orlando, Boston, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Miami) to European destinations (Oslo, London, Berlin, Paris, and Rome) for as little as $99 one-way in economy light. The deal is currently live and will go through Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 12:00 a.m. EDT.

Free upgrades at Marriott Bonvoy hotels and resorts

Marriott Bonvoy, one of the largest hotel chains in the world, is offering complimentary upgrades or discounts on suites for summer bookings made by July 31 for stays through September 4, 2023. To access the upgrade, use the promotional code HDK.

40 percent off Celebrity Cruises

If you’re dreaming of a trip to the Mediterranean, Alaska, or the Bahamas, Celebrity Cruises’ deal could make it a reality. Currently, the cruise company is offering 40 percent each guest and up to $200 in onboard credit for every sailing (excluding the Galapagos) for travel between now and April 30, 2025. The deal is available through July 23.

Stay in a Kimpton for up to 30 percent off

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants’ Long Weekend Away Sale is live through September 4. Available at all participating Kimpton hotels globally, guests can save between 15 and 25 percent on stays when they book three nights or more.

Uniworld is now offering discounted river cruises around the world.

Courtesy of Uniworld

Save on Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Travelers who book an all-inclusive, luxury river cruise with Uniworld can score up to $3,000 in savings. Some standout itineraries include:

• Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration
• Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong
• Castles Along the Rhine
• Belgian Holiday Markets , a brand-new holiday itinerary for 2023

Flights from the mainland with Hawaiian Airlines from $119

Whether you’re traveling from the mainland or Hawai‘i, airfare will be cheap—provided you book soon. Hawaiian Airlines is running a deal on one-way fares , with prices as low as $119 each way from Hawai‘i’s major airports to cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. To and from New York City, fares start at $270.

Save 15 percent on certain Trafalgar trips

Trafalgar, a guided tour company, is offering a deal for last-minute adventurers: up to 15 percent off trips that are less than four months away. Some exciting itineraries in the mix include:

• Colors of Sicily
• Wonders of Australia and New Zealand
• Scenic Parks Explorer

Vail Resorts hotels at up to 20 percent off

OK, so Vail Resorts’ current deal isn’t exactly for a summer getaway, but you do need to book in the summer to take advantage of it. Vail Resorts is currently offering its Book Winter Early lodging sale, where travelers can save 15 percent on lodging across Vail Resorts’ portfolio (those who are Epic Pass Holders can receive 20 percent off). The sale ends on July 31.

This article was originally written in May 2023 and has since been updated with new information.

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The best family holiday destinations for an epic summer away with the kids

From Kefalonia to Bodrum, our travel editor selects the top places for a child-friendly getaway

Whether you want to treat the gang to a fortnight-long getaway during the summer holidays, prefer to escape for October half-term or wish to secure your Easter 2025 holiday early, there are many child-friendly destinations to explore in the Mediterranean and beyond.

With ABTA research revealing that 71 per cent of families plan to take a holiday abroad this year, we couldn't think of a better reason to inspire you to escape from the UK with your favourite people.

That's why we've brought you our pick of child-friendly holiday destinations - from the picturesque Greek island of Kefalonia to Paphos , home to magnificent Roman ruins.

What's more, package holiday specialist TUI is currently offering free child spaces , so little ones can travel at no extra cost. This means savings on flights, hotels, food and transfers.

Plus, you can combine the free kids' places with promo codes ( including £150 off Greece and Turkey summer holidays ) for even bigger savings.

Whatever your budget or travel style, here are our top family holiday destinations for 2024.

With a host of child-friendly hotels, extremely well-preserved Roman mosaics and the Aphrodite Waterpark for fun-filled days out, Paphos is the timeless family holiday destination we're always happy to return to. Children obsessed with ancient history will love the UNESCO-protected Archaeological Park of Kato Pafos, an open-air museum with Roman villas that depict scenes from Greek mythology. And for a proper adventure, go off road on a Jeep safari to the nearby Troodos Mountains, where waterfalls, traditional villages and incredible views await.

PAPHOS HOLIDAYS

One of the most glamorous beach destinations in the Mediterranean is a fabulous place to experience with children, too. The Bodrum Peninsula has an array of beach towns and resorts, including Bodrum Town, with its imposing 15th-century castle, and lively Gumbet, as well as the relaxed areas of Gumusluk, Torba an and Bitez. For days out, take your pick from family boat trips, visits to weekly markets (perfect for stocking up on Turkish delight) and snorkelling the warm waters around Rabbit Island. Travelling with toddlers? Karaincir Beach is the spot for calm, shallow water.

BODRUM HOLIDAYS

This glorious Greek island is the largest of the Ionian archipelago and ideal for a family-friendly getaway. The setting for the 2001 film Captain Corelli's Mandolin , Kefalonia offers even more than Hollywood appeal. This is the place to enjoy a slow pace, whether you're soaking up the sun on the superb beaches of Myrtos or Skala, or joining the locals to gather in the main square of the capital Argostoli. If you're an active family, snorkelling, kayaking and hiking are some of the must-dos on Kefalonia.

KEFALONIA HOLIDAYS

Often reserved for winter sun (and a terrific place for February half-term for those planning ahead), Tenerife is one of the most scenic of the Canary Islands, offering unique landscapes to explore. Here, you can get up close to huge mountains (the Teide National Park is home to the highest peak in Spain), immerse yourself in subtropical forests and unwind on dramatic black sand beaches. Adeje, Puerto de la Cruz and La Arena are some of the top areas to choose for a family-friendly base.

TENERIFE HOLIDAYS

One of our favourite spots in Europe for a family holiday is the tranquil island of Menorca in the Balearics. An unspoiled alternative to Ibiza and Mallorca, Menorca feels more remote than its siblings and is swathed in natural beauty, making it the ideal place to get out and explore its untouched hills and dazzling coastline. The harbour capital Maó is worth a visit to walk its pastel streets, and active families can lace up their walking shoes to hike part of the Camí de Cavalls, an ancient trail encircling the island.

MENORCA HOLIDAYS

If snorkelling, souqs and sprawling sands are your thing, you'll want to check out the Red Sea resort of Hurghada. It's a fantastic choice for a family package holiday and provides a blissful winter sun retreat, if you prefer to escape from the UK in the cooler months. What's more, if your children are obsessed with ancient Egypt, Hurghada is slightly better placed than the other top beach resort, Sharm El Sheikh , for day trips to Luxor, the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings.

HURGHADA HOLIDAYS

Whether you're looking for an easy-breezy all-inclusive stay in a beautiful location, or a hotel on a bed and breakfast basis that gives you the freedom to spend more time exploring the glorious surroundings, Sardinia is a place that delivers. The second-largest island in the Mediterranean has fabulous cuisine, a colourful coastline and plenty of inland villages for you to discover on foot or two wheels. Choose Olbia for gorgeous beaches, Costa Smerelda for the A-list appeal or San Teodoro for Caribbean-like sands.

SARDINIA HOLIDAYS

Bulgaria frequently tops the list of most affordable places for a family holiday and it's just the spot for saving money on a group getaway, while you enjoy the delights of the Black Sea. In the town of Nessebar, there are centuries-old churches and one of Europe's largest waterparks, Aquapark Nessebar. Meanwhile, the pristine beaches of Golden Sands Beach, Nessebar South Beach and Ravda Central Beach are nearby and provide excellent conditions for children to swim.

BULGARIA HOLIDAYS

The Greek island where the Durrells family called home remains a wonderful destination to visit with kids. Corfu boasts the olive groves, amazing coastal scenes and ancient churches you expect from a traditional Greek escape. You can fill your days with hiking, biking, swimming and dining at tavernas. Don't miss pottering about the streets of the UNESCO-protected Old Town and a trip to the tiny island of Pontikonisi to see its Byzantine chapel, either.

CORFU HOLIDAYS

If you spent your holidays before children soaking up the boho vibes of the White Isle, returning with the little ones could be an appealing option. Talamanca, Es Caná, Cala Llonga and Portinatx attract families and allow you to avoid the party crowds. When it comes to keeping everyone entertained, a visit to Ibiza Town to wander round the cobbled lanes and a day at Cala Tarida, one of the loveliest and most child-friendly beaches, will score you brownie points.

IBIZA HOLIDAYS

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Revealed: the trendiest 2024 summer travel destinations

Here’s where people are looking to travel, according to Google

If you’re dreaming of a big summer getaway, now’s the time to start planning. Not sure yet where you want to go? Google Flights has some inspiration for you with the release of its list of the top summer travel destinations for 2024.

The most popular destinations searched for by U.S.-based travelers are what you might expect: London, Paris, Tokyo, Rome, and New York, respectively, make up the top five. Cancun dropped to number six after placing third last year, followed by Orlando, Las Vegas, Seattle, and Athens, Greece. Other U.S. cities like Boston, Honolulu, Miami, Los Angeles, and Denver made the top 20, while Chicago and San Francisco failed to make the list this year.

Google Flights also provides more refined insights on top destinations for couples, families and solo travelers—all of which are giving Turks and Caicos love. Couples are looking to head to Turks and Caicos, the Poconos, the Maldives, Cancun and Gatlinburg. Turks and Caicos also topped the list for families, followed by Myrtle Beach, Jamaica, Cancun and Aruba. Solo travel continues to gain popularity, and Google Flight data reveals that solo travelers are eyeing trips to the likes of Bali, Japan, Acadia National Park in Maine, Turks and Caicos and Costa Rica.

• Gerrish Lopez Contributor, New Orleans

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Fifty travel hacks: Conor Pope’s tips for saving time, money and effort when planning your next adventure

When it comes to going on holidays, smart planning can save you a fortune and make your holiday infinitely more pleasurable.

While the cost of summertime jollies is skyrocketing, there are still ways to shave a few bob off the price. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

We’re all going on our summer holidays – or at least we might be in the not too distant future if we’re lucky. While the cost of summertime jollies is skyrocketing, there are still ways to shave a few bob off the price. Here are just 50 of them, so please fasten your seat belts, ensure your tray is in the upright position and turn your phones to aeroplane mode.

1. Take a photo of your passport

As soon as you finish this article – but definitely not before – find your passport and take a photograph of it. Immediately email the picture to yourself. It might be a wasted two minutes but if your passport is ever lost or stolen, having the picture will save you time and maybe even cash because it makes getting emergency travel documents easier.

2. Sort your European Health Insurance Card

Sign up for a European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) today too – but again, only when you’re done with this article. Remember it must be renewed every five years so, if you last signed up pre-Covid, it’s probably due for renewal. It allows you to be treated like a citizen of whatever EU country you’re in if you need medical attention. It’s free, although some sites that appear prominently on search engines try to attach a fee to the application. Only apply through ehic.ie .

3. Create a special travel folder

Email all hotel and flight booking details and travel insurance documents to yourself as well. Create a special travel folder and put everything in that folder so you can handily access it from anywhere in the world.

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4. Don’t delay with travel insurance

You haven’t sorted your travel insurance yet? What are you waiting for? It doesn’t get cheaper closer to your holiday and, without wanting to be a downer, almost half the claims we make are filed before travel, with illness and death the most likely reasons for cancellations.

5. Airfares

When is the best time to get the best value on flights is an age-old question, with no resolution in sight. Generally speaking, prices depend on supply and demand and the more flights from different airlines there are to a particular airport, the lower the cost. Aside from that, the commonly accepted wisdom is that airfares climb incrementally as the date of departure comes close and booking a flight six to eight weeks before departure is the sweet spot.

6. Try out money-saving theories

There are other money-saving theories, mind you. There’s very specific speculation in the virtual world that airlines’ automated systems dump unsold seats on Wednesdays between midnight and 1am in the time zone of their home city. So if you’re flying to Thailand, say, start looking at 5pm Irish time on Tuesday evenings. We’ve no proof this is the case but it might be worth a look and you don’t have to stay up until ridiculous o’clock to check it out. Then there is the Cookie Monster theory, which suggests airlines track visits to their sites looking for flights to particular destinations. Using pesky computer cookies they gauge our interest, and jack up their prices if we seem overly keen. We’ve put this theory to airlines. who rubbish it, but if you’re unconvinced, you could clear your cookies and search for flights in incognito mode. It won’t do any harm.

7. Sign up for alerts

Sign up for alerts with flight aggregators such as Momondo or Sky Scanner if you have a destination in mind but no set dates. When flights fall to a certain level be ready to pounce.

8. Use fare finder tools

Ryanair has a handy fare finder tool if you’re agnostic about where to go. Click on the “plan” link on the top right of the home page and you’ll be brought to a page containing a link to its fare finder. Set the departure city – in our case Dublin – and the maximum you have to spend on a flight – in our case €20. It will throw up all the matches. When we tried it last week we were offered one-way flights to Girona, Carcassone, Ibiza, Mallorca and a whole lot more for less than that. It’s a wonder we’re still here to be honest.

9. Shop around

You’re not forced to fly with the same airline to and from your destination and it might be cheaper to go out with Aer Lingus and come home with Ryanair or vice versa.

When is the best time to get the best value on flights is an age-old question, with no resolution in sight. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

10. Try different airports

If you’re flying long-haul don’t confine your search to Irish and British airports. Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Helsinki often offer better value and are within striking distance of here.

11. Pay for extras early

Pay for extras when making the original booking. Adding other bits can come at a premium when done after the fact.

12. The day matters

The day of travel matters. We’re conditioned to fly at weekends for leisure and Mondays and Fridays for work. But the cheapest flights can be found on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

13. Midweek packages

Package holidays starting in the middle of the week cost less too, according to Which? Travel. If you can swing it, always go from a Wednesday or Thursday to Wednesday or Thursday.

14. Late-night flights

Now, this might not suit everyone but if you book outward flights for dawn and homeward flights last thing at night, you effectively get two more holiday days. It’s essential to do your homework – having easy access to summer clothes and swimming stuff and finding a place to store the bags is crucial if you don’t want to be in the heat of a European summer dressed for an Irish spring while squabbling over who minds the cases.

15. Avoid school holidays

Unless it is unavoidable, don’t travel during school holidays. A trip booked for May or September can cost 30 per cent less than the same one booked for high season in family-friendly locations.

16. And don’t forget school breaks abroad

Bear in mind children in other countries have holidays too, so don’t book when the young folk from elsewhere are off. English children have a half term starting on May 27th this year so expect a spike in prices that week. Their summer holidays don’t start until July 25th so Irish families should really look to get away before then. Germans have a 10-day break from May 21st with their summer holidays also starting on July 25th.

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17. Don’t be a slave to the savings mind

Put in the legwork and get prices from travel agents, booking platforms and hotels directly before handing over cash. It takes time but if you can save yourself even 10 per cent it amounts to hundreds of euro. Don’t be a slave to the savings mind. A package holiday booked through a bonded travel agency might cost a bit more (although that is not a given) but being able to pick up the phone and speak to a human being if things go wrong can be invaluable.

18. Consider all-inclusive

Upfront it’s dearer but in an era of spiralling inflation, booking and paying for an all-in deal in March could save you a few bob in September. And when it comes to all-inclusive, make sure there’s more than one restaurant and bar on the site, read the Tripadvisor reviews and look at dedicated all-inclusive rather than ones that mix and match as they’re better equipped.

Seriously. If you’ve kids from six months to 18, carry on camping. We’re not talking about an in-tents experience but something with air conditioning, dish washers and decks. The campsites of Europe are a joy for families and because you’re living your best outdoor life, self-catering is fun – and much cheaper.

20. Keep it local

Whether booking online or in-store or all-inclusive or camping, try to keep it local. Not only is supporting Irish businesses good for the local economy, you have more – and more easily enforceable – rights that way.

Whether booking online or in-store or all-inclusive or camping, try to keep it local. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

21. Next up is the car

If you’re going to hire one, hire it early and ask yourself if you need one. Car hire can be a habit but if you’re not going to use it much, maybe don’t bother. There is wikivoyage.com to tell you what you need to know about your destination’s transport options. Apps make ordering cabs anywhere in Europe pretty painless. Even if you spend €30 a day on them, it still works out cheaper than car hire. Not hiring a car could easily save you a grand over a two-week holiday.

22. Only drive when you need to

If you decide you need a car, do you need it for the whole trip? Consider renting one for only a portion of your break.

23. Airport car hire comes at a premium

And consider where you do the hiring. Obviously, we can see the appeal of getting a car at the airport, loading it up with your luggage and heading off. But airport car hire comes at a premium and if you can hire one away from the airport you might see the cost fall by about 20 per cent.

24. T&Cs

Take care with the T&Cs, and tot up how much extras – booster seats, additional drivers and the like – will cost and always Google the car hire companies you are considering to see how they rate when it comes to customer service. Two minutes research could save you endless heartache if it allows you to avoid a company with an appalling record.

25. Avoid full-to-empty fuel policies

Never go for companies with full-to-empty fuel policies. They’ll almost always charge more for fuel than garages and you won’t use the fuel you pay for. And don’t fill up on the last forecourt before the airport. They’re not mugs and you’ll pay a premium for not being more organised.

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26. Inform your bank

It seems ridiculous, but telling your bank you’re going away might stop them cancelling or putting a hold on your card if you have the temerity to use it in Torremolinos.

27. Pack less

Saving money on luggage starts before you pack a flip-flop. Always pack less than you think you’ll need and the old cliche about laying everything on the bed before taking only half of it works.

28. Roll those clothes

Whatever about the amount, you need to be a packing ninja. Rolling rather than folding clothes saves space. Start with the jeans and dresses and then T-shirts and tops. Squeeze underwear into the spaces and socks – if you can be bothered with them – go into shoes.

29. Cut back on the liquids

Carry as few liquids as possible and decant them into smaller plastic bottles. Contact lens cases are excellent liquid and cream holders and hold a surprising amount. If you don’t have contact lens cases, an optician will sell them for buttons (or give them to you for free).

30. Shop abroad

Buy bulkier, heavier items – towels, shower gels, sun creams – overseas. They’ll be cheaper than home too, saving you space and money.

31. Never go over your baggage allowance

Even a kilo more can cost you dearly. Excess baggage charges vary, but expect to pay more than €10 for each kilo over you go. Don’t waste money on special scales, just stand on a regular scales with and without the case and do the maths. If you’re a couple of kilos over, move the heaviest – non liquid – items into carry-on bags. If you have a neck pillow, consider abandoning its comforts and stuffing it with some of the contents of your suitcase. Unless you overstuff it, you should get it past the flight attendants. If you do stuff clothes into your pockets pay close attention to where your passport is. You don’t want to have a stress-induced turn trying to find it under the scowls of boarding crews as your knickers cascade all around you.

32. Pool allowances

Weight allowances are not always about individual suitcases. Ryanair passengers, for instance, can often pool or share baggage allowances. So if a reservation has two checked bags of 20kg, one of the bags could weigh 15kg and the other 25kg.

33. Know all the rules before you leave home

If you want to bring a 10kg bag on a short-haul Aer Lingus flight, you must book a “carry-on bag with priority boarding” at a cost of €9.99. But 10kg bags can be checked in for free. If you show up at the boarding gate with your bag without paying in advance, it will cost you €35 per person. Priority boarding with Ryanair plus two in-cabin bags costs between €6-€36 while checking it in can cost between €11.99-€29.99 per flight depending on the time and distance travelled. A 20kg bag with the same airline costs between €18.99-€59.99. Again, if you show up without having paid the fees, you will pay dearly for it.

34. Airport parking

If you’re driving to the airport – and you might be better off taking a cab – make sure you pay for your parking well in advance. It will make a massive difference to the final cost and you might find there are no spaces if you don’t.

Whatever about the amount, you need to be a packing ninja. Photograph: Richard Drury/Getty Images

35. ‘Fragile’ luggage

When checking in bags, ask to have them marked “fragile” even if they are not particularly fragile. The label goes some way to ensuring your bags are treated with a bit of tenderness, and fragile bags tend to be first on to the carousel.

36. Fast-track lanes and lounge access

Use fast-track lanes at airports at home and abroad and investigate lounge access. The former can take much of the stress out of the airport journey for less than €10 per person while the latter can make the experience beyond security nicer.

37. Currency exchange

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, never change money at an airport: you will be ripped off.

38. A bored traveller is the spendiest one

Airports are expert at parting you from your cash. We’re in good form and have a few bob. and we are bored and ripe for the picking. So before you buy that cologne, those sunglasses, the ridiculous shorts, the gizmo or the vodka, ask yourself if you need it and if it’s good value. The answer is almost always no. Bring reading material and download movies and television programmes and invest in things to keep you and yours entertained.

39. Time is money

The second you get off the plane in your destination start power walking. Time is money and every person you pass on the way to passport control knocks 30 seconds off your queue, more if they’re British (thank you Brexit). If you’re travelling as part of a family, once you’re through security designate one adult to get the bags and the other to race to the car hire place. You could add hours to your holiday – and to your life – by following this advice. You’re welcome.

40. Car insurance

When collecting your car you’ll be asked if you want extra insurance. It might suit but super collision damage waiver insurance can cost up to €30 a day. Instead, take out an annual policy at home with an Irish insurance company. Make sure you have enough on your credit card to stand a hefty deposit.

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41. Check any car you hire

Ask about breakdown procedures and put the emergency number into your phone. Check the clutch by putting the car into fourth gear and depressing, slowly releasing the clutch while stepping on the accelerator. If it releases fully without the vehicle stalling, there is a problem. Make sure it doesn’t become your problem by asking for a different car.

42. Save that data

Download Google maps covering wherever you are so you don’t have to use your data or even have an internet connection when navigating. Just click on the map covering the place you are going, type “okay map” into the search bar, press download and you are good to go.

43. Google Translate

Remember, Google Translate is your friend. We love how it allows you to photograph text in a different language so it can translate it. It might stop you ordering callos à la plancha in a Spanish restaurant.

44. Tickets for attractions

Buy tickets for the attractions you plan to see ahead of time. It may save you money but it will definitely save you time as you won’t have to queue. It is worth looking at the online prices even if you are in a queue, they are frequently cheaper.

A lovely lunch in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower might sound enticing but the food will be terrible and expensive. Photograph: Christian Kruemmel/iStock

45. Be careful where you eat

Don’t eat too close to the most famous tourist spots and never eat in a place with pictures of the food instead of words on the menu. A lovely lunch in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower or on La Rambla or beside the Spanish Steps might sound enticing but the food will be terrible and expensive. Have a drink maybe but save your big spending for places off the beaten track. Use your phone to find “places to eat near me” to make the best calls.

46. Plan in advance

Many cities offer free access to museums on certain days and after certain times. Don’t leave it to chance, and do your homework before you make your visiting plans.

47. Consider a local sim card

If you’re going abroad for a decent stretch and travelling outside of the EU, consider investing in a local sim card to save yourself the pain of roaming charges. And make sure to turn off your data and look for wifi hotspots instead.

48. Adaptors

If you are anything like this writer, you have a million or so adaptors at home. You only need one if you bring a multi-socket plug.

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49. Travel overnight

Overnight trains across Europe are a wonderfully exotic way to travel and it saves you the cost of a night’s accommodation. Overnight flights do the same thing although they don’t seem quite so exotic. Invest in things to make your trip more comfortable, including a decent set of ear plugs and an eye mask.

50. Returning the rental car

Return the car when the rental company is open and have it inspected carefully. If you do have to return the car outside working hours, be sure to take pictures and a video of it when it has been parked in the designated area. Mail the pictures to yourself. And remember to keep an eye on your credit card to ensure that no sneaky charges are added in the days and weeks after you get home. Then start saving for next year.

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12 Summer Destinations That Are Perfect for Couples

Traveling can be one of the most enriching things you can do in your lifetime — and it can be even better with a partner. Taking a trip together is one of those milestones every couple must reach in their relationship, kind of like moving in together, getting a pet, or going to Ikea.

Many people consider taking a trip together as an important step before even getting married. According to a study from Travelocity , 56 percent of couples agree that travel is important for keeping the spark in a relationship.

But probably the best reason to travel together is all about the memories you’ll make. Exploring another city, state, or country creates a wholly unique and exciting experience for both of you. Plus, seeing your partner in an unfamiliar place can tell you a lot about who they are as a person. You know how your partner relates to the world when you’re home, but you can learn so much more about them when you’re galavanting around Paris, or exploring a market in Bangkok.

Especially for couples in the first years of their relationship, getting out of your comfort zone can lead to an even deeper bond. A study conducted by US Travel found that couples who travel together, stay together for longer periods of time and are more satisfied with their relationship overall.

And the benefits don’t stop there: Couples can form better lines of communication and find better ways to compromise, since you’re both focused on each other during a trip, according to US Travel.

If you're ready to start planning your romantic getaway, here are a few amazing places we suggest going with your significant other.

Alberta, Canada

The best part of Canada has to be its natural, gorgeous landscape. And you and your partner can get your fill of nature while you visit Banff National Park, conveniently close to Alberta. Spend a weekend by Moraine Lake or Maligne Lake, where you can find excellent hiking trails, incredible glaciers and wildlife.

Santorini, Greece

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

Gorgeous, white, cliffside buildings with bright blue roofs that perfectly compliment the ocean below? Count yourselves in. Santorini is a romantic oasis and a stunning place to watch the sunset.

Bangkok, Thailand

Lounge on pristine beaches, shop at a floating market, and eat delicious Thai food in gorgeous settings every day while you visit this increasingly popular destination for savvy travellers. Foodie couples will especially love taking this trip.

London, England

Beautiful architecture, a rich history, and plenty of arts and culture await you and your significant other in the U.K. And if you want to get away from the crowds in the city, you can always take a tour to see the vibrant, green fields and charming villages in the countryside.

Tulum, Mexico

Go snorkeling in the warm waters, swim in the cenote (a natural sinkhole formed in the limestone bedrock), or hike the nearby Mayan ruins. And if you just want to relax, there are also plenty of luxurious hotels and resorts to put your feet up.

You and your partner won’t find a more adventurous vacation than a safari. Visit a conservation site or wildlife park to learn about the animals and about their environment. Many of these places also have education programs where you can learn about conservation efforts as well. Serengeti National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the area.

The Adirondacks, New York

There’s nothing better than getting back to nature with your partner. Pitch a tent, breathe in some mountain air and gaze up at the stars, surrounded by maple, pine and spruce trees that make up this 6-million-acre park .

Iceland may be cold, but it’s a hot destination for people who want a unique vacation. You and your partner can soak in geothermal spas at the Blue Lagoon, watch the glow of the Northern Lights, and take a steam at one of the many saunas.

Hakone, Japan

Hakone doesn’t have as many cherry trees as Kyoto, but it does have an abundance of hot springs. Take in the natural beauty of the Japanese landscape and absorb some healing waters on a nice day trip away from the city. You can also visit Mount Fuji or the Hakone Shrine.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

There are several places in Italy that are perfect for couples to go, but the gorgeous, seaside villages of the Amalfi Coast are perfect for people who want to get away from the tourist traps. Visit famous sites like the Emerald Grotto, medieval churches, museums, gardens, and natural stone streets. Or just stroll down by the ocean for some alone time.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is known for its “fairy chimneys” — tall, thin spires of rock peppering the landscape. There are also cave churches, homes carved into the rock, and hot air balloons. If you’re looking for a truly magical trip, you can’t do better.

Paris, France

What better place to ignite your passion than the City of Love? There are plenty of romantic spots to drink, eat or just enjoy each other’s company. In addition, there are lots of cultural places to visit, like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower .

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Good place for both winter and summer - Serebryany Bor

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Good place for both winter and summer

We have been here during summer and this is our first time during winter. Great for kids. A lot of things to do: skating, sledge, downhill sliding. We have also had lunch in a nice restaurant pomestye park. We didn't go hiking this time but during summer, the park provides very picturesque trails.

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Why the dacha was a Soviet heaven on earth (PHOTOS)

In modern Russia, a dacha is usually a cottage or a nice house in the country, with a high fence, running water and sometimes heating. The concept of ‘dacha’ appeared in the Russian language back in the 18th century. For nobles, it meant a country estate with a splendid manor house, where they did not live permanently, but would visit from time to time, usually in the summer. A Soviet dacha was a completely different thing altogether.

What was a Soviet dacha like?

Dacha residents tending strawberry beds

First of all, it was a place where city dwellers could grow their own vegetables and fruit. Dachas were allocated free of charge to employees of various departments, officials, the military, teachers, members of the professional unions of architects, writers, artists and many others, as well as to many ordinary public servants in the USSR. Usually those were small wooden houses on a small plot of land, typically just 600 square meters in size.

Dachas outside Moscow

In the USSR, there were whole dacha settlements (known as ‘allotment associations’), where a large number of houses stood close to each other along several streets, separated by low fences. Sometimes, houses were semi-detached and would be shared by two families, each having a separate entrance.

A dacha settlement outside Moscow

However, even those cramped houses were people’s favorite place to escape from the city. Albeit small, it was a patch of land that a Soviet person could call one’s own and where they could relax.

A Baikal-Amur Railway train driver’s dacha outside Irkutsk

Those who were not given a dacha could still get a plot of land in an allotment association, where they could grow vegetables, visit regularly to tend their kitchen garden and gather crops. Usually people grew potatoes, cabbage and strawberries, but also much more.

Ballet dancer Maya Plisetskaya at her dacha

Tiny Soviet apartments had hardly any storage space in them, so many people used their dachas to store old clothes, books, furniture and other junk that they did not want to throw away.

Dacha garden art

Even now, dachas are often used as a place for recycling old things, which has given rise to a peculiar “art” form, sometimes quite tacky. Check out this picture gallery of garden art here . 

Dacha is all about summer

An engineer from the Elektrostal heavy machinery plant at her dacha

Traditional Soviet dachas usually had no heating. Thus, the dacha season usually opened with the first visit of the year around the May holidays, when the dacha was cleaned after several months of disuse, its shutters opened, garden furniture taken out of the shed and arranged on the plot of land, which also had to be taken care of after the winter months.

Soviet cosmonaut Vladislav Volkov at the dacha, with his family

Since most dachas were just summer houses, visited mainly at weekends, they also usually did not have running water or sewerage. What they did have were outdoor wash-hand stands, consisting of a water container with a stopper underneath that had to be pushed up for the water to come out. The water from it went either directly onto the ground or into a basin.

The famous wash-hand stand

Toilets were outdoor, too: usually in the form of a small wooden hut built over a large hole in the ground. Some dachas had outdoor shower rooms, with water collected in tanks on their roofs and heated by the sun.

A dacha toilet

In winter, dachas mostly stood unused. Those that had a stove could be visited for the New Year holidays, too, but the house had to be well heated first.

Clearing snow at the dacha

Dacha is not (necessarily) for leisure

Dacha gardening

A Soviet person practically did not know how to relax. If they were lucky, they could be issued with a holiday voucher to spend a fortnight at a sea or a health resort. However, those fortunate enough to have a dacha, usually ended up spending their vacations there.

Prominent children’s surgeon Nemsadze gardening at his dacha

The catch was that while at the dacha, there was absolutely no time to relax, because there were always so many things to do. Something would always break down and needed to be repaired.

Domestic chores at the dacha

Even when everything was in order, there was always room for further improving the property and the patch of land it stood on, e.g. by installing a shower or building a summer veranda, for instance.

On a veranda

In addition, looking after the kitchen garden took a lot of time and care – first planting, then weeding, watering and caring for plants, treating them against pests and then harvesting the crops. Often, a whole weekend or vacation could be taken up by all this work.

Circus artist Oleg Popov at the dacha with his parents

The only time to relax at a dacha was when receiving guests. Then, hosts would heat a samovar, set a table outside and treat their guests to homemade berry jam and other goodies.

Dacha as a source of happy childhood memories

A little girl at a dacha outside Moscow

During the three-month-long summer holidays, schoolchildren could go to a pioneer camp for several weeks. But for the rest of the time, to escape from the city (and to give their parents some breathing space), children were often sent to the country, to spend time at their grandparents’ dachas. Often, parents would also take their annual leave in the summer and spend it in the country with their children.

Father and son at a dacha

In large dacha settlements, there were always many children, who spent all their time outdoors, running around, playing together, or disappearing to their secret haunts. An added bonus was the proximity of a river, a lake or even a small pond.

Children dressed according to dacha fashion: rubber boots are a must

While at the dacha, children usually wore old clothes that had been retired from the city (and that could get torn or dirty without anybody minding), so they often ended up looking quite ridiculous. But nobody minded that either, as it was one of the charms of dacha life, where kids felt liberated after spending nine months in tidy and ironed school uniforms.

Soviet leaders had dachas, too

Stalin with his daughter Svetlana and Lavrentiy Beria at a dacha in Sochi

Stalin was very fond of spending time at his dachas. He had about 12 of them - several in Moscow Region, as well as in Sochi, Abkhazia and in Crimea. He not only worked at his country residences, but also often received ministers and officials there.

Marshal Georgy Zhukov at his dacha

The country’s leaders after Stalin, as well as high-ranking officials, members of the Soviet nomenklatura and generals also had dachas. Theirs, however, sat not on 600 sq. m. plots of land, as those of ordinary people, but often occupied entire hectares of land.

Leonid Brezhnev at his dacha

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Google will now let you use AI to build travel itineraries for your vacations

As we inch toward the summer holidays, Google is announcing a slate of travel updates that place it squarely in the travel planning process and give it a lot more insight into purchasing intent in the travel sector.

First up, Google is rolling out an update to its  Search Generative Experience (SGE) that will allow users to build travel itineraries and trip ideas using AI, the company announced on Wednesday.

The new capability — currently only available in English in the U.S. to users enrolled in Search Labs , its program that lets users experiment with early-stage Google Search experiences and share feedback — draws on ideas from sites across the web, along with reviews, photos and other details that people have submitted to Google for places around the world.

When users ask for something like “plan me a three day trip to Philadelphia that’s all about history,” they will get a sample itinerary that includes attractions and restaurants, as well as an overview of options for flights and hotels, divided up by times of day.

For now, the itineraries are just that: There are no options to buy services or experiences on the spot. When you’re happy with your itinerary, you can export it to Gmail, Docs or Maps.

Google has not commented on when or if it might roll this out more widely. But it points to how the company is experimenting with how and where it can apply its AI engine. A lot of players in the travel industry may be eyeing up the role that generative AI will play in travel services in the coming years — some excitedly, some warily. But even now, startups like Mindtrip and Layla , which provide users with access to AI assistants that are designed to help you plan your trips, are already actively pursuing this.

But with this new update, Google is taking on startups like these while also gathering data about travel purchasing intent (useful for its wider ad business) and learning what kind of appetite its users might have for such services.

Image Credits: Google

Google also announced that it’s making it easier to discover lists of recommendations in Google Maps in select cities in the U.S. and Canada. If you search for a city in Maps, you will now see lists of recommendations for places to go from publishers like The Infatuation, as well as from other users. You will also see curated lists of top, trending, and hidden gem restaurants in 40+ U.S. cities.

Finally, the company is adding new tools to help you customize lists you create, so you can better organize your travel plans or share your favorite spots with your friends and family. You can choose the order the places appear in a list so you can organize them by top favorites or chronologically like an itinerary. Plus, you can link to content from your social channels.